35 Issue 4 Winter Edition 2017 UPWORD BUILDING HER STORY SERIES: NINA WIDMER Photo by Teri Hofford Photography heavy lifting and machinery are considered dangerous for a pregnant person. It really depends on how their jobs can be altered and what their bosses are willing to do for them.” For Widmer, it’s been a positive experience working with Alpha Masonry and B & F Masonry. When Widmer goes back to work after her maternity leave, she is looking forward to living up to her new designation: Journeyperson of the Year – Urban. “It is surreal to have been nominated and awarded the title of Journey Person of the Year – Urban. There are so many talented and deserving tradespeople in Manitoba that it is truly an honour to have won,” says Widmer.“I am looking forward to continuing my craft while finding a new balance between career and motherhood.” Widmer was nominated by Manitoba Women in Construction Chair and Parkwest Project’s Safety Coordinator, Teri Urban. “Nina is an excellent mentor to the apprentices that she works with and gives so much back by promoting the skilled trades to others who would have never considered a career in construction,” explains Urban. “Nina loves her craft and empowers others by sharing her experiences on how her trade has excelled her professionally and personally.” Widmer is a role model to people across the province looking to succeed in a construction trade, and now she’s the ultimate role model for her sweet baby girl. Perhaps Isabella will follow in her mother’s footsteps, just like Widmer did in her father’s, and join the increasing number of women working in Manitoba construction. Nina Widmer mentors a student at Unlocking the Toolkit: Girls Forum.